Home Of Our Own, A MPAA Rating: PG Entertainment: +2 1/2 Content: -1 1/2

With this enjoyable film, Gramercy Pictures has fallen right in line with other producers who are currently making family films about families. This one is the true story of the Lacey "tribe" of six children and their widowed mother, Frances Lacey (Kathy Bates). After losing her job in Los Angeles in the 1960's, Frances and her kids take off in their old jalopy to find a new home in another state. She selects Hankston, Idaho, where she persuades a Chinese widower, Mr. Moon (Soon Tech Oh), to let them finish building an old house on one of his nearby properties. From this point on, the film describes their struggle to complete the house and survive their abject poverty. The story is told from the perspective of the oldest child, 15 year old Shane (Ed Furlong), as he attempts to fill in as "man of the house." Both the comical and traumatic experiences of Frances and the children add interest and drama to the film. The friendship and support which Mr. Moon and others in the community extend to them is inspiring. A HOME OF OUR OWN is not an outstanding drama, but is well acted, heartwarming and appropriate for all ages.

Frances is doggedly determined to provide a home for her family. She is a stern disciplinarian and at times becomes harsh. On two occasions, she whips Shane with a leather belt when he challenges her authority. Even so, she loves her children and works as a waitress to support them and build the house. The generosity and friendship of Mr. Moon softens her heart some, but she insists on paying her own way and not living off charity. Unfortunately, she lacks genteelness, and indulges in some profanities and obscenities. Even young Shane utters a profanity and an obscenity in some intense scenes. There's no sexual content or nudity in the film, but one of Frances's suitors insists on having sex with her and roughs her up on a date. Although Frances is not a religious person, she allows Mr. Moon to say a prayer at their Thanksgiving dinner. Wiithout the foul language, it would make good family viewing.

Preview Reviewer: John Evans
Distributor: Gramercy Pictures, 9247 Alden Dr., Beverly Hills, CA 90210